Dr Joe Roberts
Harper Adams University

Who is your scientific inspiration and why?

Sir Humphrey Davy – he was a true pioneer who discovered a number of elements and invented the sub-field of electrochemistry. In addition to this, Sir Humphrey also invented the Davy lamp that saved countless miner’s lives. As a Cornishman it makes me proud to have such an important scientist from the county.

In three words or phrases how would you describe your supervision style?

Student-centred, supportive, goal-driven

In one or two sentences please describe your strategies regarding the following.

Provision of training:

Initial training will be led by myself before transitioning into an independent, student led approach during your second and third years. I am always happy to provide guidance, however, and encourage my PhD students to work collaboratively to support one another.

Progression monitoring and management:

I will set out my expectations of your progression on a monthly basis. If these progression criteria are not met we will always discuss a plan of action together.

Communication:

I am known to email my team at all hours of the day and night, however I will not expect you to do the same. I want PhD students to ensure they have a good work-life balance and I do not expect regular weekend / evening working.

How often do your PhD students see you in a timetabled group meeting?

At least once per fortnight

In year 1 of PhD study, how often do your PhD students have a scheduled >30 minute 1:1 meeting with you?

At least once per week

In year 2 of PhD study, how often do your PhD students have a scheduled >30 minute 1:1 meeting with you?

At least once per fortnight

In year 3 of PhD study, how often do your PhD students have a scheduled >30 minute 1:1 meeting with you?

At least once per month

What form do your 1:1 meetings with PhD students take?

Face to face (if allowed under current health and safety advice)

Open door policy?

Yes, I am usually contactable for an instant response 3 or 4 days per week.

My expectation of PhD student working patterns?

Work in my lab requires being present on site (be it in a laboratory or at a field site) during the core hours of Mon-Fri 09:00-17:00 (or a subset if working part time).

Notice for feedback (e.g. on reports, manuscript drafts, thesis chapters)?

I need at least 1 week’s notice to provide feedback on written work of up to 5000 words.